Opposition spokesperson for Social Policy Paula Mifsud Bonnici yesterday said the government’s childcare service was not being offered to those who needed it most and she urged the government to widen the service.

A single parent who could only work for a few hours a week did not qualify for free childcare, she said. This was discriminatory.

It was important to have an inclusive education system, based on equality and social justice. Inclusive education was also associated with democracy and full participation. Only by adhering to these principles could one ensure more economic growth, reduce poverty and increase social inclusion.

The government failed in its promise to eliminate poverty as this persisted and increased.

She also said the national curriculum should not favour advantaged students. It should be flexible to cater for all students independently of their ability.

The amendments should truly give new light of hope to those students facing problems.

It was important that such amendments did not remain on paper but help students find employment, she said.

Dr Mifsud Bonnici said that the government had to invest more in Learning Support Assistants. They did not have the tools to do their work and should be paid more.